Introduction to Rock Scrambling Field Experience for Families
Description
Join certified Lead Guide Stephen Fredericks for an introduction to rock scrambling that the whole family can enjoy! Participants will learn safe and efficient movement on granite terrain, including balance techniques, hand and foot placement, and route-finding fundamentals. The adventure takes place among the sculpted rock formations of Barker Dam, where participants will navigate low-angle slabs, boulder features, and natural corridors at a comfortable pace. The focus is on safety, confidence-building, and hands-on exploration in a supportive group setting. This is an ideal introduction to desert scrambling for individuals, families, and first-time participants looking to experience Joshua Tree in an active and engaging way.
This class takes place in Joshua Tree National Park.
Anyone may attend! This adventure is great for beginners, as well as for families and youth ages 8 and up. Youth under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Entry to Joshua Tree National Park is not included in the cost of enrollment. Please purchase your park pass ahead of time by visiting the NPS website.
No meals or equipment are provided.
Participants are responsible for their own transportation; carpooling with other participants is encouraged.
This class is moderate. The walking portion covers less than 2 miles with limited shade, uneven terrain, and little elevation gain. This specialized class requires rock scrambling and involves passing through close spaces. Participants should be comfortable hiking on uneven terrain and using hands for balance. Route selection will be adjusted based on group ability and conditions.
Required Items:
Water (1 - 2 liters per person)
Appropriate hiking attire: Lightweight pants and long-sleeved shirts are recommended for squeezing through small spaces
Food and snacks
Closed-toe athletic shoes suitable for scrambling
Sun protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended
Daypack
A full tank of gas (or full charge for EVs) prior to arriving at the meeting location
Discount Policy: Only one discount may be applied per registration. Discounts cannot be combined. Eligible discounts include Friends & Family, Teacher, Veteran, Active Duty Military (and spouses), Park Lover Member, and Student discounts. The highest applicable single discount will be applied at checkout.
Meet Your Instructor: Stephen Fredericks, the founder of Summit Climbing Guides, is a certified Lead Guide from the Professional Climbing Guides Institute (PCGI). Book Stephen for your multi-pitch adventures or self-rescue courses! Originally from Idaho, his deep-rooted passion for the outdoors began during his early years spent camping, exploring, and climbing in the picturesque surroundings of Sandpoint’s lakes and forests. Stephen honed his rock climbing skills across various locations in the United States, predominantly within the rugged terrains of Southern California. Joshua Tree National Park holds a special place in his heart, drawing him back repeatedly over the last 15 years. It was amidst these granite monoliths and iconic Joshua trees that Stephen sharpened his expertise before venturing to establish his own guiding company in 2022. Committed to prioritizing safety and enjoyment, Stephen's company provides unforgettable climbing adventures that mirror his enthusiasm for sharing the magic of rock climbing, hiking, rappelling, adventure outings, and instructional courses that are customized and tailored to one's skill level and ability.
A heartfelt thank you to our partner, Summit Climbing Guides, for collaborating with us on Talus Caves in Joshua Tree Field Experience for Families and Introduction to Rock. We truly appreciate their expertise, professionalism, and ongoing support in sharing the climbing and canyoning heritage of Joshua Tree. We encourage you to support this outstanding local business by visiting their website and learning more about their guided adventures in the park.
Photo Credit: NPS/Samantha Laarman
FAQs
- Who do I contact if I am running late?
Please plan to arrive on time for your class. We allow a 10-minute grace period for check-in before the class officially departs or begins. If you find that you will not be making it, please notify us in advance via email at desertinstitute@joshuatree.org.
- What if I need to cancel?
Desert Institute will provide a full refund if we are notified more than 7 days in advance. We are unable to process refunds for any cancellations less than 7 days in advance.
- Does Desert Institute cancel activities for weather or low enrollment?
If we do not meet our minimum of 10 registered participants for any given activity, we will likely cancel the activity with at least 48+ hours’ notice. Desert Institute runs classes rain or shine, except for astrophotography classes, which require mostly clear skies to be successful. If weather poses a safety risk, the class will be cancelled or postponed. We recommend that you purchase travel insurance, as we are unable to reimburse for expenses you incur due to a canceled class, such as airfare and hotel.
- What if I forgot something I need?
Our visitor centers and park stores are stocked with amazing essentials for your adventure. Preview or purchase items from our online shop; we carry hats, shirts, bandanas, water bottles, notebooks, maps, books. And more!
- Can I bring my kids? My Spouse? Pets?
Only registered participants may attend Desert Institute activities (unless noted in the activity description). If this is a kid-friendly activity, please make sure your child(ren) are registered and meet the age requirements. As much as we love pets, we don’t allow them in the field with any of our activities.
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